San José

Locations

The capital city of Costa Rica

Historical and cultural attractions

Near the Juan Santamaria International Airport

Great first or last destination for your stay in Costa Rica.

San Jose is the capital city and the head of the province of the same name. Located in the Central Valley, it is the political, economic, and social center of the Costa Rican territory. It has been catalogued as one of the most developed and safe capital cities in Central America. San Jose is home to prestigious hospitals, renowned universities, and fabulous museums that you won’t want to miss.

Much like a typical capital city, with noise and traffic jams, it is not common to find San Jose on most travel itineraries. But, if you should choose to visit, you can enjoy colonial mansions converted into museums, restaurants, and boutique hotels. In the famous neighborhood of Barrio Amon, you won’t want to miss the exceptional Gold, Art, National, and Jade Museums. Next, visit the incredible National Theater, a legacy of the boom of coffee exportation. There is plenty of nightlife to choose from as well.

San Jose has comfortable temperatures year-round, ranging from 14 to 35° C (57-95° F) with an average temperature of 25° C (77° F) during the day with cool nights. The dry season is from December to April, which is also the high season for tourism. The rainy season, or green season, runs from May to June and is the low season for tourism. Easter and Christmas seasons constitute the peak seasons. You can enjoy better prices and less crowded destinations throughout Costa Rica by travelling during the low season months.

San Jose is a world-renowned destination for medical tourism. Many tourists choose our capital city for high-quality medical, dental, vision, or esthetic procedures at prices much lower than their home countries. They are often able to enjoy a tropical vacation and get their procedure done, and still save money.

Where to visit?

Pre-Colombian Gold Museum Museo de Oro Precolombino

Jade Museum

Costa Rican Art Museum

Costa Rica National Museum

National Theater

Barrio Amon

Children’s Museum

Central Market

Craft Market

Poas Volcano National Park

Irazu Volcano National Park

Braulio Carrillo National Park

Ujarras Ruins and many other day tours available during your stay in San Jose.

Packing recommendations:

Long pants and light jackets for colder nights, shorts and t-shirts for warm days, sunscreen, umbrella, rain poncho, and camera.